Brick & Block Laying
Brick and block layers provide the building blocks for many construction projects in New Zealand. They combine practical and artistic skills to create structures that last for generations.
Job Prospects
Very good
Total Fees
The first year start-up fee for Brick and Block Laying and Refractory Installation is $975, and each year after that there is an additional annual fee of $875.
Time to qualify
3-4 years
Career opportunities
Brick and block layer, supervisor, business owner
Qualifications
What brick & block layers do
As a brick & block layer you can build retaining and structural walls, clad houses using bricks, precut stone and concrete blocks to ensure they are weathertight and look good. Bricks and blocks an also be used for decoration to create things like fireplaces and other interior features.
Working in brick & block laying is diverse work, from retaining walls to cladding houses right through to using concrete blocks as structural components for buildings.
BCITO Te Pūkenga brick & block laying qualifications
BCITO Te Pūkenga manages brick and block laying apprenticeships. In your apprenticeship you will be working towards one of the following qualifications:
- New Zealand Certificate in Trowel Trades Brick and Block Laying Level 4
- New Zealand Certificate in Trowel Trades Refractory Installation Level 4
You’ll work under an experienced brick and block layer who'll provide on-job coaching and tautoko throughout your apprenticeship. You'll also receive the guidance of a BCITO Te Pūkenga training advisor.
There are no strict entry requirements, although it will help if you have good maths and English skills – you need to be able to understand instructions, and work out measurements, quantities and angles.
Your apprenticeship is the start of a professional career
Brick and block laying isn't just a job – it's a professional career. By doing an apprenticeship and getting qualified, you're setting yourself up for ongoing employment as a well-paid tradesperson. You’ll also open up opportunities to do further study in supervision or site management, go to university or start your own business.
